Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Every Kind of Seacoast Dad

Father’s Day is right around the corner and for many, gift-giving is STRESSFUL. Don’t freak out friends, we’ve got you covered. Read on for awesome Father’s day gift ideas that not only celebrate every type of father, but support local Seacoast businesses as well!

For the “Fun & Games Dad”

If your dad is the kind who loves board games, thrives on puzzles, or tends to think outside of the box, this list is for you:

1. A gift certificate to Diversions Puzzles & Games. This shop is stocked with the coolest games on the market, but they also have an event schedule so that you can drop in to unplug and play with locals. 
2. A night out to the Portsmouth Escape Room. Spend an hour with Daddy dearest on an interactive adventure game! Players discover hidden clues and unravel puzzles in order to solve a mystery and exit the room within one hour. By solving each puzzle, players get more clues in order to progress further until they unlock all the secrets and exit the room, or until the time runs out.
3. Take him to trivia night! This list offers the best seacoast spots.

For the “Fit Dad”

Is your Dad active? If he enjoys running, working out, or outdoor sports, check out this list for gift ideas. 

1. Get him a gift certificate to Runner’s Alley, Philbricks, Papa Wheelies, George & Phillips, or Putnam’s, depending on your Dad’s favorite athletic pastime. These local shops have amazing service, selection, and knowledge when it comes to all things active. 
2. He may like a local gym membership for a month, or year, depending on your budget. Seacoast Sports Clubs is a local gym that has multiple locations and options for personal training. 
3. Athletic Dads love spas too! If your Dad will use it, consider gifting him a certificate to Flōte where he can enjoy some time in an epsom salt-filled pool pod or getting a massage. They have locations in both Portsmouth and Hampton!

For the “DIY Dad”

We get it; some dads love to use their hands to create. These fun businesses offer DIY opportunities that are perfect for a night out with your favorite father!

1. Check out Port City Makerspace. This locally owned and operated community touts itself as “the ultimate playground for those who tinker, design, build, fabricate, prototype, make and machine”. You can purchase a membership or sign up for any of their classes which are perfect for those looking to schedule some one-on-one time with dad. 
2. Book a workshop at Board and Brush Creative Studio in downtown Portsmouth. This DIY sign-making workshop offers everything you need to make (and take home) a custom sign. You get to choose your design and make it on the premise alongside your Dad. 
3. Paint together at one of the local art-and-sip joints along the seacoast! Check out Art With A Splash (Portsmouth), The Off Beat Owl Paint Bar (Exeter), or Yaymaker to book a local event. 

For the “Artsy Dad”

We all know the Dad who loves music, theatre, and going out for a night on the town. If that sounds like your Dad, this list is may be for you.

1. Get him a season pass to the Prescott Park Arts Festival. There are various passes to fit every budget, and some even include VIP table reservations!
2. Book him a show or get tickets to the Music Hall, Seacoast Repertory Theatre, or 3S Artspace. These Portsmouth-based performance spaces offer top-notch events that your artsy dad is bound to love. 
3. Make some Dad memories! Wow him with a night out on Hampton Beach with a show at the Casino Ballroom and dinner along the boardwalk. The event calendar is packed with amazing performances and you have your pick of restaurants along the strip. Dad will be so impressed. 

For the “Foodie Dad”

Some dads cook. Some are passionate about food and dining. If this is your father, this list is for you.

1. Surprise your dad with specialty spices from a local shop! A quick trip to downtown Portsmouth is bursting with options. From The Black Trumpet’s Stock + Spice, to The Spice & Tea Exchange, to The Salt Cellar, you’ll have plenty to choose from.  
2. Find him a new culinary tool. If you’re shopping in Portsmouth, swing on in to LeRoux Kitchen or Attrezzi for a gift, high-end cooking oils, or specialty cookware. 
3. Think about taking Dad out to dinner. The seacoast is packed with incredible culinary destinations for every taste bud and budget. Pick your town and then a restaurant. Some spots even offer specialty seating where you can watch the kitchen prepare the meals. Our family’s favorite foodie picks include Thistle Pig, Moxy, and Festina Lente.

For the “History Buff Dad”

If you dad is up for an adventure and loves to learn about history, take him for a local tour. Here are some ideas to point you in the right direction.

1. Take him for around town! The seacoast offers some great local tours, on foot, bike, or in the sky. If you have a bigger budget, take Dad on a helicopter ride. You can keep it simple too on a the slimmer budget. Tour on foot and learn about Portsmouth’s history with the hilarious Underbelly Tour, or other themed tours through the Portsmouth Historical Society. 
2. Explore history with a trip to the Albacore. This Portsmouth-based submarine exhibit is a fun excursion for the history-loving dad. 
3.  Cruise the coast and learn a bit about the area with either a Piscataqua-based Harbor Cruise or a lovely excursion to the Isle of Shoals. 

Do you have more ideas to share? Post or comment below with your favorite go-to gifts that support local Seacoast businesses!